Screening tests and men’s health – Part 2

Diabetes Screening
If you are age 45 or older, you should be screened every three years. If you are overweight, ask your health provider if you should be screened at a younger age. If your blood pressure is above 135/80 mm Hg, or you have other risk factors for diabetes, your provider may test your blood sugar level for diabetes.

Dental Exam
Go to the dentist once or twice every year for an examination and cleaning. Your dentist will evaluate if you have a need for more frequent visits

Eye Exam
Have an eye exam every two to four years; ages 40 to 54 and every one to three years, ages 55 to 64. Your doctor may recommend more frequent eye exams if you have vision problems or glaucoma risk. Have an eye exam at least every year if you have diabetes.

Lung Screening
Screenings are recommended for smokers especially those who have a 30 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

Blood Pressure Screening
Have your blood pressure checked once a year. If the top number (systolic number) is between 120 and 139 or the bottom number (diastolic number) is between 80 and 89 mm Hg, then continue to have it checked every year.

Watch for blood pressure screenings in your area. Ask your provider if you can stop in to have your blood pressure checked. You can also check your blood pressure using the automated machines at local grocery stores and pharmacies. If the top number is greater than 140 or the bottom number is greater than 90, schedule an appointment with your provider. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to have your blood pressure checked more often.

Osteoporosis Screening
If you are between ages 50 to 70 and have risk factors for osteoporosis, you should discuss screening with your provider. Risk factors can include long-term steroid use, low body weight, smoking, heavy alcohol use, having a fracture after age 50, or a family history of osteoporosis.

Physical Exam
Your blood pressure should be checked at least every year. Your height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) should be checked at every exam.
During your exam, your doctor may ask you about depression, diet and exercise, alcohol and tobacco use.